Chapter 1

SSL VPN Overview

SSL VPN is a secure remote access solution that provides point-to-point com- munication between remote users, such as mobile employees, partners, or resellers, and a private enterprise network. It does so by creating a secure SSL-based tunnel between a user's computer and the SSL VPN gateway. This allows authorized remote users to gain access to critical business resources such as corporate intranets, shared file systems, native client/server applica- tions, and terminal services.

1.1SSL VPN : Architecture

To log on to a remote network, you need to log on to the SSL VPN gateway. To do this, you typically need to use a client provided by the service provider. For instance, if you are trying to log on to your office network, you will first need to install a VPN client on your home PC or laptop and then use it to log on.

Alternately, some service providers allow you to log on to the remote network via an Internet portal. Once logged on, an SSL VPN plug-in is installed on your computer. This plug-in then establishes a secure tunnel between your com- puter and the SSL VPN gateway.

Figure 1-1Basic functioning of SSL VPN

The Citrix NetScaler SSL VPN solution provides both modes of access. These are the agent and the plug-in. These modes, however, are configured by the SSL VPN administrator on the gateway. If the SSL VPN administrator config- ures the gateway to allow the users access via the plug-in only, the plug-in is downloaded every time the user logs on to the gateway.

SSL VPN User’s Guide

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Citrix Systems 9000 Series manual SSL VPN Overview, SSL VPN Architecture

9000 Series specifications

Citrix Systems is a leader in virtualization technology, known for its robust solutions that facilitate remote access and enhance productivity. One of its noteworthy offerings is the Citrix 9000 Series, which is designed to optimize application delivery and provide excellent user experiences in enterprise environments.

The Citrix 9000 Series is built on advanced technologies that ensure high performance and reliability. One of the standout features is its ability to intelligently manage and route application traffic, reducing latency and ensuring that users receive quick and efficient access to virtual applications and desktops. This is critical in today's fast-paced work environment, where every second counts regarding application response times.

Another key characteristic of the Citrix 9000 Series is its support for a wide range of protocols, including HDX (High Definition User Experience), which enhances the performance of virtual applications across various network conditions. This responsiveness ensures that graphical applications run smoothly, even in bandwidth-constrained environments, making it ideal for remote workers and those using mobile devices.

Security is a top priority for Citrix, and the 9000 Series includes several features to protect sensitive data and provide safe access to applications. With support for advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication, organizations can ensure that only authorized users access their virtualized environments. Additionally, the system offers comprehensive monitoring and analytics to help IT teams identify performance issues and potential security threats proactively.

Scalability is another significant advantage of the Citrix 9000 Series. Whether a company is expanding its workforce or requiring additional resources to manage seasonal demands, this system can efficiently scale to meet those needs. It supports a variety of workloads, from small businesses to large enterprises, which ensures that organizations can adapt and grow without needing to overhaul their entire infrastructure.

Lastly, the user experience is thoughtfully crafted in the Citrix 9000 Series. The solution provides customizable user interfaces, enabling organizations to tailor the look and feel of applications to align with corporate branding while offering a seamless experience across devices.

In conclusion, the Citrix 9000 Series combines advanced features, scalability, security, and user-centric design, making it an excellent choice for organizations looking to enhance their application delivery and remote access capabilities.